The Hawaiian Legislature has approved a bill banning the possession, sale and distribution of shark fins in the state, including its coastal waters.

Once signed by Governor Linda Lingle, the bill could take effect as soon as July １and would represent a significant step toward halting the death of some ８９ million sharks currently killed each year for their fins.
Initiated by the respected former Hawaiian First Lady Vicky Cayetano, the measure has been supported by scientists like Honolulu marine biologist Christie Wilcox, who stated, “As if it's not bad enough that it's cruel and wasteful, shark populations have plummeted dramatically in the last fifty years, and practices like finning only exacerbate what is already a glaring ecological problem.”

Sharks are also revered by native Hawaiians as benevolent guardian spirits and family protectors in animal form. A big bravo Hawaiian legislators, former First Lady Cayetano and all supporters of this significant measure to save our shark co-inhabitants.

May they be graced to swim freely in their natural ocean habitats as we treat all beings with respect through the adoption of wholesome and compassionate plant-based fare.

http://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/most-popular/general/hawaii-to-ban-shark-fins.html
http://www.sharksavers.org/blogs/651-hawaii-shark-fin-bill-passes-the-house-of-representatives.html
http://www.kitv.com/news/232171966/detail.html
http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/World/Story/STIStory_520103.html
http://scienceblogs.com/observations/2010/04/shark_fins_banned_in_hawaii.php